By Lauryn M’banga

The Association of Women in Media (AWOME) has raised concern over the increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) targeting female journalists on digital platforms.

Speaking during a training session held in Blantyre, AWOME Chairperson Dorothy Kachitsa said that female media practitioners continue to face various forms of GBV online, including harassment, threats, and cyberbullying.

The Digital Skills and Online Safety for Female Journalists training was organized in collaboration with the Media Council of Malawi (MCM) to equip female journalists with essential digital safety skills to help them navigate and protect themselves in the online space.

“It is very important to empower female journalists with the knowledge and tools to stay safe online,” said Kachitsa.

“As they carry out their duties, they are increasingly becoming targets of abuse, and we must ensure they are protected.”

MCM Executive Assistant Moses Kaufa echoed Kachitsa’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for awareness and protection among female journalists.

“Online safety is no longer optional. Female journalists must be equipped to understand the digital threats they face and how to respond to them effectively,” said Kaufa.

The training brought together a diverse group of female journalists—veterans, mid-career professionals, and newcomers to the industry—fostering peer learning and mentorship on issues of online safety, responsible digital use, and resilience against GBV in digital spaces.